October 15, 2025: The redevelopment of Mata Ramabai Ambedkar Nagar and Kamaraj Nagar in Ghatkopar officially began on Tuesday, paving the way for 17,000 slum dwellers to receive free homes. The Bhoomipujan ceremony marked the commencement of Phase 1 of the ambitious slum rehabilitation project, which will see the construction of 4,345 new houses.
The event was attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, along with senior officials from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) and the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA).
Calling it a historic day, CM Devendra Fadnavis said, “No one will be left out, even if legal issues exist. This is Ambedkar’s vision in action.” This is the first time in MMRDA’s 50-year history that it is serving as a developer for such a project. The initiative aims to transform slum clusters into modern, well-equipped residential zones.
Between June and October 2025, MMRDA finalised agreements with nearly 10,000 families, cleared 3,662 structures, arranged Rs 1,500 crore in funding, appointed architects and consultants, and disbursed Rs 137.5 crore in rent advances.
Deputy CM Eknath Shinde said, “After 40 years of waiting, people will finally have dignified homes. A memorial to Mata Ramabai Ambedkar and a commercial unit for the family of martyr Murali Naik will also be built.”
Spread across 31.82 hectares, the project includes residential and commercial spaces, free 1BHK homes of 300 sq ft for all eligible families, and post-construction maintenance for 10 years.
Deputy CM Ajit Pawar added, “This project stands for dignity, justice, and inclusive growth.” MMRDA Commissioner Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee concluded, “We are building more than homes. We are building hope, dignity, and opportunity.”
Source: Mid-day
